The Great Smarties Confusion: US vs. UK
Before delving into the details of insect-derived ingredients, it is crucial to understand that the word 'Smarties' refers to two different products depending on your location. The product in question is not the same worldwide. The chalky, sweet tablets sold in the United States by the Smarties Candy Company are distinct from the colourful, candy-coated milk chocolates produced by Nestlé in the UK, Canada, and other countries,. The answer to whether insects are present lies in this key distinction.
Nestlé Smarties (UK/Canada): The History with Carmine
For many years, the red and violet shells of Nestlé's chocolate Smarties were coloured using carmine, also known as cochineal extract,. Carmine is a bright red food colouring (E120 in Europe) derived from the crushed bodies of female cochineal insects,. These insects feed on prickly pear cacti and are a traditional source of a stable red dye. The use of carmine is a long-standing practice in the food and cosmetics industry, valued for its colour stability. However, as consumer demand for more natural ingredients and vegan-friendly products increased, Nestlé responded by phasing out artificial and insect-based colourings. In 2009, Nestlé Canada and the UK switched to all-natural colours derived from plants,. The new red colouring for Smarties came from red cabbage extract, while the blue was sourced from spirulina. This change ensures that the colourful shells of modern Nestlé Smarties no longer contain cochineal-based dyes.
The Shellac Glaze in Nestlé Smarties
While Nestlé has removed carmine, another insect-derived ingredient remains relevant for those following a strict vegan diet: confectioner's glaze, or shellac,. Shellac is a resinous substance secreted by the female lac insect (Kerria lacca), and it is used to create a shiny, protective coating on many confections. The ingredient list for UK Smarties explicitly mentions glazing agents like carnauba wax and beeswax white. Beeswax is a product of bees, and while not an insect itself, it is an animal-derived product. Both beeswax and shellac are not considered vegan. Therefore, even with the removal of cochineal, Nestlé Smarties are still not suitable for vegans due to the presence of beeswax.
US Smarties (Candy Rolls): A Vegan-Friendly Alternative
In stark contrast to their chocolate-covered counterparts, the American Smarties candy rolls are and have always been free of animal-derived ingredients,. The Smarties Candy Company proudly advertises its products as vegan and gluten-free, with ingredients including dextrose, citric acid, and calcium stearate,. The company ensures its products are made in peanut-free facilities and are free from the top nine major food allergens, making them a safe and compassionate option for those with dietary restrictions or ethical concerns. The vibrant colours of US Smarties are achieved through artificial food dyes, not insect products like carmine.
Comparing Smarties Ingredients: US vs. UK
| Feature | US Smarties Candy Rolls | Nestlé Smarties (UK/Canada) |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Chalky, sweet tablets | Milk chocolate in a hard sugar shell |
| Key Ingredients | Dextrose, citric acid, calcium stearate | Sugar, milk powder, cocoa butter, cocoa mass |
| Insect-Derived Dyes | No (uses artificial colors) | No (switched from carmine to plant extracts) |
| Insect-Derived Glazes | No | Yes (uses beeswax) |
| Vegan Status | Yes | No |
| Gluten-Free | Yes | No (contains wheat flour) |
Understanding Other Insect-Derived Food Additives
While Smarties are a specific example, it is helpful to recognize other common food additives that can be derived from insects. Knowing these can assist in making informed dietary choices.
Common Insect-Derived Ingredients:
- Cochineal Extract / Carmine (E120): As mentioned, this is a red dye used in various pink and red foods and beverages, including some yogurts, juices, and ice creams.
- Shellac / Confectioner's Glaze: This glaze from the lac insect is used for a shiny finish on many candies, gum, and even pharmaceutical tablets.
- Beeswax: Secreted by honeybees, beeswax is used as a glazing agent in some confectionery.
These ingredients are generally safe for consumption but are avoided by vegans, vegetarians, and some religious groups. For those with severe allergies, carmine can also be a potential allergen.
Conclusion
The question of whether Smarties contain insects has a nuanced answer based on the specific product. For American consumers, Smarties candy rolls are completely vegan and insect-free. However, for those consuming Nestlé Smarties in the UK or Canada, while the carmine dye has been removed, the shells are still coated with beeswax, making them unsuitable for vegans. Always check the ingredients list on the packaging, as recipes and regulations can change over time. Being aware of the different product formulations and common insect-derived ingredients like carmine and beeswax empowers consumers to make informed decisions that align with their dietary and ethical preferences. For more information on American Smarties, visit the Smarties Candy Company official website.
